CONCACAF U-20 group stages: Mexico untouched

‘El capitán pollo’ Briseño not only handled opposing attacks, but put in a goal himself (Miseleccion.mx)

Mexico’s U-20 showed up to the group stages as major favorites to advance…and they showed exactly why. In the match against Curaçao, Mexico put three goals in during the first half. After that point, Mexico easily controlled the game, missing a few solid chances, but never giving Sánchez any major worries.

Heading into the El Salvador match, El Tri only needed a tie to advance on top of the group. The game started and ended with Mexico in top shape. El Salvador would get an eventual counter every couple minutes, but Mexico’s defense was too tall, strong, and quick for the Salvadorian rivals.

Escoboza put Mexico in the lead during the 15th minute after heading in a cross from Gomez. El Tri would have a few good looks at goal, but went into the half up 1-0.

In the second half, Mexico was given a dangerous free kick, which Julio Gómez flicked in with the back of his head. To wrap it up, Antonio Briseño copied Julio, and headed in another free kick in the 87th minute.

As of now, this is what the CONCACAF U-20 WCQ knockout looks like this…

February 26: USA vs Canada, Costa Rica vs Cuba

February 27: Panama vs El Salvador, Mexico vs Jamaica

This quarterfinal knockout round is the most important, as Mexico will go up against Jamaica. During group stages, Jamaica beat Puerto Rico 4-1, but then was embarrassed against Panama 0-4. However, at this point in WCQ, El Tri cannot take anyone lightly, but if they stick to their game…Hello Turkey.

Talking about Mexico, how is the u17 side doing? I can’t find anything on them. I know they beat the US 4-0 because they show it in the US site, but other than that, concacaf.com said that they were to play other sides, like Panama, as well. Any word?